The Light Between Us

The Light Between Us

How can a photographer of internationally known stars create iconic portraits that linger in the memory--especially since these actors have already been photographed and filmed millions of times? Vincent Peters--who has been working since 1995 for magazines such as <i>Vogue</i> and <i>GQ</i> and fashion brands including Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Yves Saint Laurent--relies entirely on the classic art of portrait photography for his pictures. Focusing on small gestures and subtle productions instead of prominent poses, he ensures that his subjects do not disappear into the backdrop and that their faces are the focal point. Emma Watson's features are lent a tragic note with white makeup. Annie Lennox appears like a stern missionary in a suit and fedora. Photographs of stars such as David Beckham and Christian Bale are markedly masculine. Even more intimate are the images that Peters has taken in private surroundings, like when he accompanied Monica Bellucci during her second pregnancy. His sophisticated lighting has the most impact in his black-and-white photos, bestowing them with a breathtaking cinematic quality.